Foods you should be eating to boost your brain and body

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Let’s face it – most adults suffer from at least some mild fatigue on a day to day basis. Lack of sleep, meals on the run, not enough water or exercise – all these things are built into the typical American lifestyle and all of them can cause people to feel a bit sluggish. This can make a day full of work, housework or childcare feel like a lot to get through – and explains the extreme popularity of energy drinks even though many warnings have been put out about their potential health risks.

The good news is, though, that if sluggishness and fatigue are a problem, there are some natural solutions to help. Getting enough water to drink is important, as fatigue and dehydration pretty much go hand-in-hand. But there are also some foods which, if eaten regularly, can help revitalize the mind and body both. They include:

Turmeric
This warm golden spice which lends flavor to so many great curries and other Indian dishes is a great thing to include in the diet. It is a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory and has been shown to ward off many chronic conditions like cancer and dementia. It mixes easily into soups, pasta or rice dishes and even smoothies and teas!

Coconut oil
There is a reason that coconut oil has gotten so much good press in recent years: its health benefits are phenomenal! It helps with weight loss, increases energy levels and it is great for brain health: like turmeric, regular consumption of coconut oil has been associated with a decreased risk in Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.

Blueberries
Blueberries are another great food for both the mind and body. They are loaded with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds as well as phytonutrients that can promote overall health, slow the aging process and stimulate brain function as well. They are one of the overall healthiest fruits on the menu because of this.

Fatty Fish
Regular consumption of fatty fish like tuna, salmon, sardines or mackerel is another great way to keep the body and mind both fit! These fish provide high-quality protein that is needed for muscle health and energy, while the Omega-3 fatty acids have been shown to increase cognitive functions like memory and attention and to reduce the chance of developing dementia as well.

Regular consumption of these foods can go a long way to revitalizing both the body and the mind. They one and all provide the minerals, vitamins, fiber, antioxidants and other important compounds that are needed to boost energy levels naturally, ward off chronic disease and support the health and function of the brain. The fact that these foods are all incredibly delicious and make the job of incorporating them into the diet that much easier!

Sources:
http://www.chopra.com/ccl/how-to-use-coconut-oil-for-whole-body-health
http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=foodspice&dbid=8
http://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/omega-3-fats/

Christine . S
Christine has written articles on most health-related topics, including traditional medicine, alternative and naturopathic and natural treatments, wellness, medical marijuana, diets and fitness.